Canadian tourism to Las Vegas is plummeting due to President Donald Trump’s strained relations with Canada, causing a significant impact on the city’s economy and becoming a focal point in Nevada’s upcoming midterm elections. The decline in visitors from Canada, who represent a crucial segment of international tourists for Nevada, has been linked by Nevada Democrats to Trump’s trade policies and threats towards Canada.
The Nevada Democratic Party, along with the Culinary Workers Union Local 226, is highlighting the negative impact of the tourism slump on the state’s economy and aiming to hold Trump’s allies, like Governor Joe Lombardo, accountable in the elections. The party emphasizes the detrimental effects of the “Trump Slump” on Las Vegas tourism, attributing the decline in Canadian visitors to the ongoing trade disputes.
Visitor numbers, airport arrivals, and hotel occupancy rates in Las Vegas have all seen a decline, with only around half of downtown hotel rooms occupied in August. The sharp decrease in Canadian visits to Las Vegas, a 17.4% drop last year, has contributed to the largest visitor decline outside of the COVID-19 pandemic era.
Industry leaders, like MGM Resorts CEO Bill Hornbuckle, have expressed concerns over the impact of reduced international travel on Las Vegas. The tourism industry is urging Trump to take actions to boost international visitation, as the decline in Canadian tourism continues to affect the city’s economy.
Local residents and workers, such as bartender Spencer Ridenour, have witnessed the repercussions of the tourism decline firsthand, with fewer customers and economic challenges affecting Las Vegas businesses. The political landscape in Nevada is also being influenced by the Canada-U.S. trade tensions, with Democratic candidates like Rep. Susie Lee incorporating anti-trade war messages into their campaigns.
Despite the economic strain and political implications, the situation remains complex, with uncertainties surrounding the potential for change even if Democrats secure power in Nevada or Washington, given the ongoing disputes and strained relations with Canada.
